The swashbuckling opener of the Indian cricket team, Rohit Sharma opened up on his first ODI double century during his recent Instagram live session with the Tamil Nadu-based off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. Sharma recalled his first double ton against Australia and disclosed the advice that MS Dhoni had given to him during that knock.
In the famous segment named ‘ReminisceWithAsh,’ the offie took his India teammate down the memory lane. Rohit had scored his first ODI double hundred against Australia at Bengaluru. He had become the third Indian batsman after Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag to achieve this unique feat.
MS Dhoni helped me stay concentrated: Rohit Sharma
Mahendra Singh Dhoni is the most successful Indian captain in cricket history. He is the only man who has guided his nation to the T20 World Cup, ODI World Cup and also the ICC Champions Trophy. Dhoni played a vital role in the upliftment of Sharma’s career as he promoted him to the opening position and that move changed Rohit’s life.
Recalling the ODI match against Australia, Sharma told Ashwin:
“I never thought I would score a double hundred. I just wanted to bat.. It rained a bit and them along with Shikhar, remained not out till the break. Soon Shikhar got out and Virat was run out as well. So I took over the responsibility. Suresh and I also shared a good partnership but lost Yuvi early.”
During the final phase of the innings, Rohit batted with Dhoni. Speaking of that partnership, he continued:
“I batted with MS Dhoni till the 48th over. During the partnership, he kept on talking and discussing things with me. He said, ‘You are the set batsman and we want you to bat till the 50th over and I will be the one who takes chances’.”
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Thus, with this guidance, Dhoni helped Sharma reach the 200 runs milestone.
